Greetings everyone!

Our class has been buzzing with activity this month! We’ve embarked on a variety of enriching projects that not only enhance our learning but also foster community connections and creativity. Here’s a glimpse into some of our recent adventures.

Exploring the Earth’s Structure and Tectonic Plates

In our Unit of Inquiry (UOI), we’ve dived deep into the fascinating world of geology. The students have been exploring the Earth’s structure, from the core to the crust, and learning about tectonic plates and their movements. Through hands-on experiments, we created models to demonstrate how earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur. This interactive learning approach has sparked curiosity and encouraged students to think critically about our planet’s dynamic nature.

To deepen their understanding, we hosted discussions on the impact of tectonic activity on our environment and communities. The children enthusiastically shared their thoughts, showcasing their understanding of how these natural phenomena affect daily life in Japan. We also discussed the potential “Big One” via San Francisco and Tokyo.

Science Fair Fun with Preschool

In an effort to promote collaboration and excitement about science, we collaborated on a Science Fair for our preschoolers. The Grade 4 and 5 students helped prepare the various booth spaces for the visiting preschoolers and showcased their own work from Units 1 and 2.

Seeing the preschoolers’ faces light up with curiosity was a rewarding experience for everyone involved. The Grade 4 and 5 students developed their leadership skills while fostering a sense of community, making this a memorable event for all!

Sports Themed Assembly

September also found us hosting and presenting the monthly school assembly. The students outdid themselves with both their attention to detail and their creativity in preparing for the day. They began with some exercises for everyone via Radio Gojo, next was the school premier of our Deep Time movie, Earth: Our Home 4.6 Billion Years Old, this was followed by a presentation about the Paralympic Games. After this was a short presentation and Q&A with local professional dancer Daisuke Omiya.

The students did exceptionally well and their hard-work and perseverance was made evident in the quality of the assembly. Well done everyone!

An English-Speaking Afternoon with Yasuka Elementary

We were thrilled to host a visiting elementary school from Omachi for an afternoon filled with English-speaking activities. This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to practice their English skills in a fun and interactive environment.

The collaboration not only helped strengthen friendships but also provided a platform for cultural exchange. By sharing stories and experiences, our students learned more about their peers from Omachi, broadening their understanding of different perspectives. It was heartwarming to see the connections that blossomed through laughter and shared activities!

Dance Routines and Flag-Making for Sports Day

As we gear up for our much-anticipated Sports Day, our class visited a local dance studio (Craetive Arts MuMu) for guidance on our performance routines. Daisuke Omiya introduced us to various styles and techniques, encouraging students to express themselves through movement. The excitement in the air was palpable as our students practiced their steps, working together to perfect their routine.

In addition to dance, we’ve also been busy creating flags for our Houses. Each student contributed their ideas and creativity, designing unique flags that represent the spirit and values of their teams. This collaborative project not only promoted teamwork but also instilled a sense of pride as we prepare for the upcoming events.

Conclusion

From exploring the depths of our planet to engaging with peers and preparing for Sports Day, our Grade 4 and 5 students have truly embraced the spirit of learning and community. Each activity has enriched their educational journey and reinforced the importance of collaboration and creativity. We can’t wait to see what other adventures lie ahead in this exciting school year!